leverage

[ˈlev(ə)rɪdʒ]

leverage Definition

• 1. the exertion of force by means of a lever or an object used in the manner of a lever
• 2. use (something) to maximum advantage

Using leverage: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "leverage" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  He used his wealth to leverage political influence.

• Example

  The company leveraged its network of contacts to expand into new markets.

• Example

  She leveraged her experience to negotiate a higher salary.

• Example

  The team's success was due to their ability to leverage each other's strengths.

leverage Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for leverage

• exploit
• utilize
• harness
• use
• manipulate

Antonyms for leverage

• disadvantage
• weakness

Idioms Using leverage

• get leverage on someone

  to gain an advantage over someone

  Example

  He was able to get leverage on his opponent by exposing their weaknesses.

• have leverage over someone

  to have an advantage over someone

  Example

  She had leverage over her boss because she knew about their unethical behavior.

• use someone as a leverage

  to use someone to gain an advantage

  Example

  He used his friend as a leverage to get the job.

Phrases with leverage

• financial leverage

  the use of borrowed money to increase the potential return of an investment

  Example

  The company used financial leverage to acquire its competitors.

• leverage buyout

  the acquisition of a company using a significant amount of borrowed money

  Example

  The private equity firm completed a leverage buyout of the company.

• leverage ratio

  a financial metric that measures the amount of debt used to finance a company's assets

  Example

  The leverage ratio of the company was too high, which made it difficult to secure additional financing.

Origins of leverage

from Old French 'lever', meaning 'to raise'

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Summary: leverage in Brief

The term 'leverage' [ˈlev(ə)rɪdʒ] refers to the use of force or an object to achieve maximum advantage. It can be used as a noun or verb, and is often associated with business and finance. Examples include 'He used his wealth to leverage political influence,' and 'The team's success was due to their ability to leverage each other's strengths.' Phrases like 'financial leverage' and 'leverage buyout' denote specific financial concepts, while idioms like 'have leverage over someone' imply having an advantage over others.